a resolution of that relationship between pakistan and afghanistanandindia, inways that might reassure pakistan? >> senator, at this point i don't have insight into what our government is doing to try to work very delicate relationship between pakistan and 80. i'm certainly aware that is going to be critical to regional stability in the long-term and our success in afghanistan, and if confirmed i suspect i will be involved in the issue and have an opportunity to provide military advice as it is for the leadership works to the diplomatic piece. >> speak to the announcement that pakistan is going to release several low-level taliban prisoners at the request of the afghan government. do you think it does suggest we could work towards a negotiated settlement, or do you think that there's just really no path to do between afghan government and the taliban without pakistan's? >> senator, i do know that i would actually support any initiative that would bring a political resolution to the conflict in afghanistan, and i know ambassador grossman, our special representative, is working very hard